THE PSYCHOSOCIAL ADAPTATION OF TYPE A VERSUS TYPE B INDIVIDUALS FOLLOWING MYOCARDIAL INFARCTION.

Abstract

The present research compared the psychosocial responses of Type A and Type B individuals following myocardial infarction. Differences in self-referential style and responsiveness to an uncontrollable event were of interest. Thirty-three post-MI patients were followed over a three month period. Self-report measures were administered at two weeks, one month, and three months post-MI to assess levels of psychosocial adjustment and factors associated with adjustment. Type A individuals were more self-involved and reported a greater frequency of negative self-statements following the heart attack. They appeared more depressed, reported more symptoms, had lower expectancies for success, and were hypersensitive to a perceived lack of control relative to Type B's. They resumed activities sooner, but delayed their return to work. No differences between the two groups were found on measures of information seeking, medical compliance, health locus of control, or life satisfaction. The results were discussed with reference to previous research on the Type A behavior pattern and implications for cardiac rehabilitation were presented.